SHAGGY-like kinases are conserved eukaryotic signaling proteins involved in the control of developmental processes, the integration of cell division signals and in modulating metabolism. Their potential role in legume nodulation, where the integration of all these functions is required, has not yet been examined, however. We describe a family of six SHAGGY-like kinases in the legume Lotus japonicus (LSKs) and provide evidence for a role of one family member, LSK1, in limiting the nodule number during colonization by symbiotic rhizobia.

Our data demonstrate that ICE1 and ZOU determine the depth of primary seed dormancy and that this can be separated from their role in initiating endosperm consumption. These genes effect endospermic ABA production and ICE1 binds to and regulates the expression of ABA INSENSITIVE 3, one of the AFL transcription factors well known for their role in inducing both seed dormancy and the seed maturation programme in the embryo and endosperm.

All 10 Rboh proteins in Arabidopsis thaliana carry the reactive oxygen species-producing activity that is stimulated by Ca²⁺ binding and protein phosphorylation, but their activity differs 100-fold between the most and least active. Complementation tests and phylogenetic analyses suggest that AtRbohs involved in tip growth have evolved to carry out distinct developmental functions while maintaining a similar activation mechanism by Ca²⁺ binding and phosphorylation.

Meiosis is essential for eukaryotic sexual reproduction and plant fertility, and crossovers are essential for meiosis and the formation of new allelic combinations in gametes. Our results suggest that OsSHOC1 and OsPTD1 are essential for rice fertility and crossover formation, providing helpful information regarding the roles of SHOC1−PTD complexes in plant meiotic progression.

Our study reveals that the metabolic intermediates in the Trp synthesis pathway could be a signal to active SA synthesis. Moreover, indole has the potential as an environmentally friendly elicitor in plant protection against soil-borne pathogens, through drop irrigation.

Fluorescence-based microscopy methods are challenging in plants due to the broad range of interfering autofluorescence. Here, we provide a detailed protocol to detect small RNAs by fluorescence in situ hybridization that can specifically detect multiple targets and is compatible with advanced imaging technologies such as super-resolution microscopy.

Optimization and improvement of the tandem MOAC phosphoprotein/phosphopeptide enrichment strategy allows unprecedented depth of phosphoproteome coverage in plants. Application to boron deficiency over time shows possibly hitherto unknown links between hormone and MPK signaling and transport under boron deprivation in roots.